Second Opinions for Workers' Compensation Injuries
Second Opinion Doctor for Workers in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Medical Group provides medical second opinions for injured workers seeking workers' compensation. Our physicians will give you their professional medical opinion on your work-related injury and provide you with an honest, accurate diagnosis. Getting a second opinion could change your quality of life forever. Schedule an appointment today.
Schedule AppointmentWhat is a Medical Second Opinion?
A medical second opinion is an evaluation from another doctor to confirm or challenge the original diagnosis and treatment plan. In workers' compensation cases, a second opinion can help verify the injury is work-related, confirm or challenge the proposed treatment plan and diagnosis, and assess work restrictions and return-to-work timelines. It's often better to seek a second opinion earlier rather than later, especially if you don't have a clear diagnosis or are facing a serious condition
Common Reasons for Seeking a Second Opinion
Workers’ compensation injuries can be tricky to get an honest diagnosis for as the parties involved may have competing interests. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development makes clear that injured workers have the right to choose their own doctor for workers’ compensation treatment. If you are not satisfied with your first doctor, you have the right to choose a second doctor for a second opinion and treatment. Common reasons why injured workers seek second opinions include:
- Diagnosis of a serious or rare condition
- Recommendation for surgery or complex treatment
- Unclear diagnosis or ineffective current treatment
- Desire for more information or peace of mind
Gain confidence in your medical decision making and seek a second opinion from a qualified medical professional if you feel unsure or unsatisfied about your current condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.
Know Your Workers’ Compensation Rights
The Worker’s Compensation Act of Wisconsin (WKC-1-P) provides benefits to employees who have been injured or become ill due to work-related activities in Wisconsin. When you notify your employer of your work-related injury, you have the right to select a doctor of your own choosing for treatment. In Wisconsin, you are under no obligation to see your employer's preferred physician for injuries sustained and reported in the workplace. If you are not satisfied with your first doctor, you are allowed a second choice without employer objection so long as the employer is notified of the change. It is critical to notify your employer of your initial selection or any change of doctors to avoid a disputed workers’ compensation claim. An accurate diagnosis is critical to receiving proper medical care, make sure you are being treated by those with your best interests in mind.
Diagnosis & Treatment for Workers’ Compensation Claims
Injured workers need a proper diagnosis to get their case through the workers’ compensation claims process. If you, your loved one, or your client has been hurt on the job, a second opinion from the Milwaukee worker’s compensation physicians at WMG may be the difference between getting appropriate treatment or not.
You focus on healing, our staff will communicate directly with your workman’s compensation claims adjustor and employer.
Common Workers’ Compensation Injuries Requiring Second Opinions
At Wisconsin Medical Group we provide second opinions for any work-related injury. If you’ve been injured on the job, a second opinion will either confirm your original diagnosis or provide you with an accurate diagnosis and the long-term impact of your injuries. Common injuries requiring a second opinion include:
and much more
Contact our Milwaukee Physician today to receive a second opinion on your workers' comp case.
What is a second opinion?
A second opinion is when a patient seeks another doctor to review their medical records and provide an expert opinion, which can confirm or challenge the initial diagnosis and treatment plan. Requesting a medical second opinion can help increase the confidence of a patient’s medical decision-making process.
Should I get a second opinion?
You should consider getting a second opinion if you are unclear about your diagnosis or have any concerns about your initial treatment plan. Common reasons for seeking a medical second opinion for workers’ compensation injuries include underestimated injuries, premature return to work, disagreement with treatment recommendations, deciding between multiple treatment options, disability rating disputes, and more.
How do I get a second opinion?
You can get a second opinion by asking your current doctor for a recommendation to another doctor or specialist for a second opinion. Alternatively, you can check with your health insurance provider who may be able to provide a list of approved healthcare professionals who can help.
Can I get a second opinion for a workers’ comp injury?
You can get a second opinion for your workers’ compensation injury in Wisconsin. The Workers Compensation Act of Wisconsin (WKC-1-P) makes clear that employees are entitled to a second choice of doctor if they are not satisfied with the first doctor. Employees must notify their employer of any changes to their doctor, and employers cannot object to a second choice.
Can a second opinion be denied for my workers' compensation claim?
Wisconsin law recognizes the importance of allowing injured workers to seek additional medical opinions if they are not satisfied with their initial treatment. If an employee is not satisfied with the first doctor they choose, a second choice is allowed without objection so long as they notify the employer of the change. While the choice of a second doctor cannot be objected to, the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier can deny your request for a second opinion, meaning you would have to pay for it at your own expense.
Is a Second Opinion the same as an Independent Medical Exam (IME)?
Independent medical exams (IMEs) differ from second opinions. IMEs are a 1-time exam performed by a neutral, third-party doctor to evaluate an individual's medical condition and help assess workers’ compensation and disability claims. A second opinion is typically sought by individuals to help make better medical decisions, whereas IMEs are typically ordered by insurance companies to confirm or refute an individual's condition.
What is the cost of getting a second opinion?
The cost of a second opinion can vary depending on your health insurance coverage. Some insurance plans cover second opinions, especially if they are deemed medically necessary. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
How long does it take to get a second opinion?
The time it takes to get a second opinion can vary and depends on the availability of the specialist or doctor and the complexity of your medical condition. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to schedule and complete a second opinion appointment.
What should I bring to my second opinion appointment?
For your second opinion appointment you should bring a few key items including, a copy of your medical records, a list of your current medications, any questions or concerns you have about your diagnosis or treatment plan, and your insurance information. Check with your doctor about any specific tests, lab results, or imaging that could be useful.
